The Semiconductor Industry’s Talent Gap: What to Expect in 2023 and Beyond


April 19th, 2023

The semiconductor industry has experienced a significant boost in investment in 2022, with numerous new facilities being built to meet the increasing demand for semiconductor chips. This influx of investment has undoubtedly fueled innovation and growth in the industry, but it has also brought about a looming challenge – the talent gap. As these new facilities come online, the need for skilled workers has skyrocketed, and it is predicted that by 2030, the industry will require approximately 1,000,000 skilled workers, which translates to over 100,000 new hires each year. This pressing challenge was a key topic of discussion among heads of HR at leading semiconductor companies during the Electronica conference in November 2022.

The Current Talent Gap

The talent gap in the semiconductor industry is not a new issue. However, the recent surge in investment has exacerbated the situation. Skilled workers, such as engineers, technicians, and other specialists, are in high demand but are in short supply. Many companies are struggling to find qualified candidates to fill their vacancies, resulting in a competitive job market.

As the industry continues to evolve with advancements in technologies such as artificial intelligence, 5G, and the Internet of Things (IoT), the demand for skilled talent will only increase. Companies require highly skilled workers to design, develop, manufacture, and test these complex semiconductor devices. However, the supply of skilled workers has not kept pace with the rapid growth of the industry, leading to a widening talent gap.

The Impact of Investment in 2022

The semiconductor industry received unprecedented investment in 2022, as companies sought to capitalize on the growing demand for semiconductor chips. This investment has resulted in the construction of numerous new facilities worldwide, ranging from fabrication plants to research and development centers. While this investment has undoubtedly spurred innovation and expansion in the industry, it has also created a significant demand for skilled workers to staff these new facilities.

As these new facilities come online, companies are facing the challenge of finding qualified talent to fill the roles. The demand for skilled workers has surged, and the competition for talent has intensified. Companies are striving to attract and retain skilled workers, and many are offering competitive compensation packages, benefits, and training programs to lure top talent.

The Hiring Outlook for 2023 and Beyond

The hiring outlook for the semiconductor industry in 2023 and beyond is expected to be highly competitive. Companies are ramping up their recruitment efforts to fill the growing talent gap and ensure they have the workforce to meet their production and innovation goals. Many companies are prioritizing hiring as a top strategic objective, and heads of HR are playing a crucial role in shaping the recruitment strategies.

Companies are exploring various approaches to tackle the talent gap. Some are focusing on upskilling and reskilling their existing workforce to meet the changing demands of the industry. This includes investing in training programs, certifications, and professional development opportunities to equip their current employees with the necessary skills. Others are looking to diversify their talent pool by targeting underrepresented groups and promoting diversity and inclusion in their hiring practices.

In addition to these efforts, companies are also exploring global recruitment strategies. With the semiconductor industry being a global market, companies are looking beyond their domestic borders to attract skilled talent from around the world. This includes exploring international partnerships, collaborations, and recruitment drives to tap into talent pools in different countries.

Ajuba’s One Year Certification Program in Semiconductor

The semiconductor industry’s incredible growth and investment in 2022 have undoubtedly led to a surge in demand for skilled workers. The talent gap in the industry is expected to widen at an unprecedented rate, with an estimated 1,000,000 skilled workers needed by 2030. Companies are prioritizing hiring as a top strategic objective and are exploring various approaches to address the talent gap

In India, Ajuba is launching a range of semiconductor training programs and certifications to part of this hi-tech market in India and globally. Together with Rayat-Bahra University, our one-year certification program provides students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the field of semiconductor. The program covers a wide range of topics, including Introduction to Nanoelectronics, IC Technology, Statistics and Design of Experiments, Digital Electronics, Semiconductor Devices, Thin Films, Lithography Materials and Processes, Microelectronics Manufacturing, and Microelectronics Research Methods. Students have the opportunity to work on real-world projects, preparing them for a successful career in semiconductor. With the increasing demand for skilled semiconductor application or service professionals in India and around the world, graduates from Ajuba’s program can expect to be in high demand in the job market. If you’re interested in a career in the field of semiconductors, Ajuba’s one-year certification program is worth considering.

Please feel to contact us via email [email protected]